Unlocking 5G: Transforming communication for security and efficiency
As we advance further into the digital age, 5G technology stands as a transformative force, bringing unparalleled improvements to the way humans and machines communicate, operate, and interact in both the physical and virtual realms. The deployment of 5G in broadband cellular networks has the potential to reshape industries and society itself, ushering in capabilities that empower decision-makers and operational leaders across sectors, especially within the U.S. federal and defense landscape.
At Nokia, we recognize that to harness the full potential of this technology, we must address security, interoperability, and reliability concerns while pushing the boundaries of communication.
5G: A gamechanger in communication and cybersecurity
5G's impact goes beyond just increasing bandwidth and speed; it offers transformative capabilities for data exchange and connectivity that redefine how systems can respond in real time. The technology enables ultra-low latency, high bandwidth, and reliable connectivity essential for mission-critical communications, autonomous operations, and secure information sharing. By reducing response times and enabling seamless data transfer, 5G enables unprecedented levels of connectivity and real-time decision-making, which are critical for enhancing the effectiveness of U.S. federal and defense operations.
Through our collaboration with the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence (NCCoE), Nokia has underscored its commitment to addressing the security and privacy challenges inherent in these advancements. In a recent white paper series titled “Applying 5G Cybersecurity and Private Capabilities,” NCCoE, Nokia and other companies explore cybersecurity best practices and innovations within 5G networks, including network security domains such as enhanced subscriber identity protection, and hardware-enabled security for platform integrity. This work lays a foundation for greater cybersecurity assurance across government and defense use cases, enabling leaders to make informed choices about how and where to deploy 5G solutions to best support national interests.
Strengthening security through subscriber identity protection
One of the most pressing security concerns with any network deployment is protecting users' identities and locations from unauthorized access or tracking. In 4G and earlier cellular networks, temporary identifiers could be compromised, allowing attackers to track users. With 5G, however, new standards require regular reallocation—or "refreshing"—of temporary identifiers. This ensures that temporary IDs are consistently and automatically reassigned, making it significantly harder for unauthorized parties to use tracking mechanisms to compromise users’ locations or identities.
The latest white paper in the NCCoE series, titled “Reallocation of Temporary Identifiers,” explains this vital mechanism and its role in bolstering 5G’s security. With defined intervals for refreshing temporary IDs, 5G enhances the privacy of users’ information. This crucial improvement makes 5G an ideal choice for environments requiring robust security, including those in federal and defense sectors, where operational integrity and data security are of paramount importance. By advancing privacy and security mechanisms, Nokia and the NCCoE are helping to ensure that 5G is not just a faster, more efficient network, but also a safer one.
Enabling autonomous operations and next-gen applications
5G networks enable a wide range of transformative applications, particularly for sectors like defense and emergency response that rely on rapid decision-making. With 5G, autonomous operations such as unmanned drones, robotic systems, and automated surveillance become more feasible and reliable. These capabilities, enabled by the low latency and high reliability of 5G, allow federal and defense entities to expand their technological and operational boundaries.
Consider a mission scenario where a team of autonomous drones is deployed to gather real-time intelligence in a remote area. 5G’s ultra-low latency ensures that data is transmitted instantly to command centers, allowing for real-time decision-making and reducing risks to personnel. This speed and reliability offer a competitive edge, allowing defense teams to be more adaptive, responsive, and effective.
Additionally, 5G enhances augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) experiences, which have applications in training, mission planning, and operational simulations. With 5G-enabled AR/VR, personnel can gain immersive training experiences without risking real-world exposure, making it easier to prepare teams for complex, high-stakes environments.
The role of private 5G networks in national security
For federal and defense leaders, private 5G networks offer a secure, customizable solution that allows them to fully control and configure their network environment. Nokia’s expertise in private 5G enables decision-makers to create tailored networks designed to meet the unique demands of federal and defense operations, offering advantages in security, capacity, and coverage. These private networks are scalable and adaptable, allowing federal entities to deploy secure 5G solutions across facilities, operational zones, and even temporary sites as needed.
Nokia’s work with the NCCoE reflects our commitment to pioneering secure, private 5G networks that address the critical cybersecurity needs of U.S. federal and defense agencies. By collaborating on best practices for cybersecurity and sharing our findings through white papers and guidance, we are helping leaders make informed, confident choices in their 5G adoption journey. NIST will be publishing more white papers on testing and researching over the coming year.
Learn more about Nokia’s secure 5G solutions
At Nokia, we are dedicated to driving innovation that enhances secure, real-time communication for federal and defense sectors. Through advanced 5G security measures and collaborations like the NCCoE, we are building networks that meet the rigorous demands of our nation’s security landscape. We invite decision-makers, technologists, and leaders within federal and defense to explore our solutions further and learn how Nokia’s 5G capabilities can support their missions.
To learn more about our secure 5G offerings and how they can benefit your organization, please contact a Nokia sales representative or your Nokia Federal Solutions’ account manager today.
